Basketball Spotlight MDC 8th Grade Orange Division Championship Recap: Lightning Strikes In Neptune!

NY Lightning

In the battle of the Nike programs NY Lightning pulled away in the second half to defeat Team Final 67-57 to win the Basketball Spotlight MDC 8th Grade Orange Division Championship. Congrats to both teams for making it to the finals and to the NY Lightning for winning it all.

Mr. Memorial Day: Posh Alexander Alexander aggressive style earned him the name “Baby Westbrook”. He got into the lane with ease and was very explosive in the open floor. He showed some above the rim prowess by throwing down two dunks over the weekend. He finished with 21 points in the championship game.

Basketball Spotlight MDC 8th Grade Blue Division Championship Recap: NX Level Rises To The Top!

NX Level 

NX Level continued their dominant weekend by defeating MSU Skyliners 65-42 to win the Basketball Spotlight MDC 8th Grade Blue Division Championship. Congratulations to both teams for making it to the finals and NX Level for winning the championship.

Mr. Memorial Day: Tommy Porter Porter used his energetic play to get things done for NX Level this weekend. He plays both ends of the floor and knows how to make plays. He was a major reason for his team’s success.

Basketball Spotlight MDC 7th Grade Orange Division Championship Recap: NY Lightning Wins The Gold Ball!

NY Lightning 7th Grade

In the Big Apple battle NY Lightning pulled away from the Brooklyn Rens 59-33 to win the Basketball Spotlight MDC 7th Grade Orange Division Championship. Congrats to both teams for making the finals and to the NY Lightning for bringing home the title.

Mr. Memorial Day: Quron Zene Jr. Zene was a load to stop all weekend. He was a beast inside and even nailed a trey ball in the finals where he finished with 28 points. It was difficult at all to select him for MVP. He punished defenders in the paint all weekend.

Basketball Spotlight MDC 7th Grade Blue Division Championship Recap: Philly Triple Threat Cruises To Crown!

Philly Triple Threat

Philly Triple Threat flexed their muscles as they ran past NJ Shore Shots 53-28 to win the Basketball Spotlight MDC 7th Grade Blue Division Championship. Congratulations to both teams for making the finals and to Philly Triple Threat for winning it all.

Mr. Memorial Day: Marvin Harrison Jr. The son of the former NFL great proved he could get it done on the court. He didn’t rely on scoring but instead gave an all-around effort on the floor which helped PTT win the banner.

Basketball Spotlight MDC 6th Grade Championship Recap: NYC Gauchos Grabs The Title!

NYC Gauchos

The NYC Gauchos held off a pesky NJ Shore Shots squad 56-43 to win the Basketball Spotlight MDC 6th Grade Championship. Both teams fought hard and beat some good teams to make it to the finals and deserve praise.

Mr. Memorial Day: Tyler Hawkins Hawkins has a new uniform but produced the same results. Once again he showed the ability to take over the game when needed. He scored at will when he got into the lane and in transition. He stepped up big.

Basketball Spotlight MDC 5th Grade Orange Division Championship Recap: Riverside Hawks Win Thriller!

Riverside Hawks

In the best game of the weekend Riverside Hawks defeated NY Rens 49-45 in double overtime to win the Basketball Spotlight MDC 5th Grade Orange Division Championship. Congratulations to both teams for giving us a thriller and to the Hawks for winning another crown.

Mr. Memorial Day: Caleb Crawford The combo guard is no stranger to winning MVP honors and this weekend was no exception. During the finals he got it done in the scoring column with 15 markers including the free throws to seal the game. This kid has been a proven winner throughout his Spotlight career.

Basketball Spotlight MDC 5th Grade Blue Division Championship Recap: Boston Spartans Victorious!

Boston Spartans

Boston Spartans came to NJ on a mission and cashed as they defeated the MSU Skyliners 54-38 to win the Basketball Spotlight MDC 5th Grade Blue Division Championship. Congratulations to both teams for making it to the finals and to the Boston Spartans for taking the title back to Bean Town.

Mr. Memorial Day: Damani Santiago Santiago capped off a good weekend with an all-around performance in the championship game. He showed the ability to get teammates involved or score the rock himself. He finished with 9 points in the championship.

Basketball Spotlight MDC 4th Grade Championship Recap: NYC Silverbacks Take Home The Crown!

NYC Silerbacks

The NYC Silverbacks used an aggressive style to run past the Riverside Hawks 40-18 and win the Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 4th Grade Championship. Congratulations to the NYC Silverbacks for bringing home the title and both teams for a great effort.

Diary Of A Baller: Bryan Hall (Hartford County, CT) Entry #6

Trey Hall With Hall Of Famer Jim Calhoun

What's up Basketball World? 

I'm glad to welcome you all back for another entry of my Basketball Spotlight diary. I started the week thinking it would be slower than most since we didn't have a tournament over the weekend. However as I write this I can say I was mistaken....the week went just as fast and I'm just as tired. 

Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 8th Grade Orange Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 8th Grade Orange Division Schedule is listed below. Make sure you travel early because of the holiday traffic. 

POOL Q 
1. NJ SHORE SHOTS 
2. TEAM FINAL (BLACK) 
3. GYM RATZ 

POOL R 
1. NY LIGHTNING 
2. NJ SOLDIERS 
3. CBC 

POOL S 
1. TEAM FINAL (BLUE) 
2. NJ SHOREBOYS 
3. TEAM IZOD 

POOL T 
1. WE R 1 
2. NJ ELITE 24 
3. BROOKLYN RENS 

SATURDAY MAY 28TH 
1:40 PM Q1-Q2 (HGH 1) 
1:40 PM R1-R2 (HGH 2) 
1:40 PM S1-S2 (HGH 3) 
1:40 PM T1-T2 (HGH 4) 
4:00 PM Q1-Q3 (HGH 1) 
4:00 PM R1-R3 (HGH 2) 
4:00 PM S1-S3 (HGH 3) 
4:00 PM T1-T3 (HGH 4) 
6:20 PM R2-R3 (HGH 2) 
6:20 PM S2-S3 (HGH 3) 
7:30 PM Q2-Q3 (HGH 2) 
7:30 PM T2-T3 (HGH 3) 

SUNDAY MAY 29TH 
8:00 AM 3RD S-3RD T (HGH 2) 
8:00 AM 3RD Q-3RD R (HGH 3) 
11:20 AM 1ST Q-2ND R (HGH 1) POOL Q 
11:20 AM 1ST R-2ND Q (HGH 2) POOL R 
11:20 AM 1ST S-2ND T (HGH 3) POOL S 
11:20 AM 1ST T-2ND S (HGH 4) POOL T 
1:50 PM POOL Q-POOL T (HGH 2) 
1:50 PM POOL R-POOL S (HGH 3) 
4:10 PM 8TH GRADE ORANGE DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP (HGH 3)

Sites: (HGH) Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave Neptune, NJ 07753

Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 8th Grade Blue Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 8th Grade Blue Division Schedule is listed below. Make sure you travel early because of the holiday traffic. 

POOL U 
1. BOSTON SPARTANS
2. SOUTH JERSEY TITANS 
3. ROLE MODEL BASKETBALL 
4. MSU SKYLINERS 

POOL V 
1. JERSEY FORCE 
2. SPARTANS 14U 
3. TEAM DELAWARE 
4. NX LEVEL 

SATURDAY MAY 28TH 
4:00 PM U1-U2 (MC) 
4:00 PM U3-U4 (AC) 
5:10 PM V1-V2 (MC) 
5:10 PM V3-V4 (AC) 
6:20 PM U1-U3 (MC) 
6:20 PM U2-U4 (AC) 
7:30 PM V1-V3 (MC) 
7:30 PM V2-V4 (AC) 

SUNDAY MAY 29TH 
11:30 AM U1-U4 (MC) 
11:30 AM U2-U3 (AC) 
12:40 PM V1-V4 (MC) 
12:40 PM V2-V3 (AC) 
3:00 PM 1ST V-2ND U (MC) 
3:00 PM 1ST U-2ND V (AC) 
5:20 PM 8TH GRADE BLUE CHAMPIONSHIP 

Sites: 
(HGH) Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave Neptune, NJ 07753 
(MC) Our Lady Mount Carmel Church 1201 Asbury Ave. Asbury Park, NJ 07712 
(AC) Academy Charter School 1725 Main St, Belmar, NJ 07719

Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 7th Grade Orange Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 7th Grade Orange Division Schedule is listed below. Make sure you travel early because of the holiday traffic. 

POOL K 
1. JERSEY FORCE 
2. NJ SOLDIERS 
3. NY LIGHTNING 
4. BROOKLYN RENS 

POOL L 
1. NY DRAGONS 
2. MBK KNIGHTS 
3. WE R 1 
4. NY RENS 

SATURDAY MAY 28TH 
2:50 PM K1-K2 (HGH 1) 
2:50 PM K3-K4 (HGH 2) 
2:50 PM L1-L2 (HGH 3) 
2:50 PM L3-L4 (HGH 4) 
5:10 PM K1-K3 (HGH 1) 
5:10 PM K2-K4 (HGH 2) 
5:10 PM L1-L3 (HGH 3) 
5:10 PM L2-L4 (HGH 4) 

SUNDAY MAY 29TH 
12:40 PM K1-K4 (HGH 1) 
12:40 PM K2-K3 (HGH 2) 
12:40 PM L1-L4 (HGH 3) 
12:40 PM L2-L3 (HGH 4) 
3:00 PM 1ST K-2ND L (HGH 2) 
3:00 PM 1ST L-2ND K (HGH 3) 
5:20 PM 7TH GRADE ORANGE DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP (HGH 3) 

 Sites: 
(HGH) Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave Neptune, NJ 07753

Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 7th Grade Blue Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 7th Grade Blue Division Schedule is listed below. Make sure you travel early because of the holiday traffic. 

POOL M 
1. MSU SLYLINERS 
2. BOSTON SPARTANS 
3. SOUTH JERSEY TITANS 

POOL N 
1. RIVERSIDE HAWKS 
2. HOOPS ACADEMY 
3. TEAM BIG DREAMS 

POOL O 
1. PHILLY TRIPLE THREAT 
2. NX LEVEL 
3. NJ SHORE SHOTS 

POOL P 
1. NWK 
2. HOOP KINGZ ELITE 
3. WALL 2 WALL 

SATURDAY MAY 28TH 
9:00 AM M1-M2 (MC) 
9:00 AM N1-N2 (AC) 
10:10 AM O1-O2 (MC) 
10:10 AM P1-P2 (AC) 
11:20 AM M1-M3 (MC) 
11:20 AM N1-N3 (AC) 
12:30 PM O1-O3 (MC) 
12:30 PM P1-P3 (AC) 
1:40 PM M2-M3 (MC) 
1:40 PM N2-N3 (AC) 
2:50 PM O2-O3 (MC) 
2:50 PM P2-P3 (AC) 

SUNDAY MAY 29TH 
8:00 AM 3RD M-3RD N (HGH 1) 
9:10 AM 1ST M-2ND N (MC) POOL M 
9:10 AM 1ST N-2ND M (AC) POOL N 
10:20 AM 1ST O-2ND P (MC) POOL O 
10:20 AM 1ST P-2ND O (AC) POOL P 
1:50 PM POOL M-POOL P (MC) 
1:50 PM POOL N-POOL O (AC) 
3:00 PM 3RD P-3RD O (HGH 4) 
4:10 PM 7TH GRADE BLUE DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP (HGH 4) 

Sites: 
(HGH) Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave Neptune, NJ 07753 
(MC) Our Lady Mount Carmel Church 1201 Asbury Ave. Asbury Park, NJ 07712 
(AC) Academy Charter School 1725 Main St, Belmar, NJ 07719

Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 6th Grade Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 6th Grade Division Schedule is listed below. Make sure you travel early because of the holiday traffic. 

POOL G 
1. TEAM IZOD 
2. BAYSHORE BULLDOGS 
3. SOUTH JERSEY TITANS 
4. NY LIGHTNING 

POOL H 
1. NJ SHORE SHOTS 
2. BOSTON SPARTANS 
3. TEAM PHILLY 
4. TEAM LOADED 

POOL I 
1. RIVERSIDE HAWKS 
2. STATEN ISLAND STINGRAY 
3. WALL 2 WALL 
4. TEAM FINAL 

POOL J 
1. HILLTOPPERS HEAT 
2. TEAM DELAWARE 
3. GAUCHOS
4. WE R 1 

SATURDAY MAY 28TH 
9:00 AM G1-G2 (HGH 1) 
9:00 AM G3-G4 (HGH 2) 
9:00 AM H1-H2 (HGH 3) 
9:00 AM H3-H4 (HGH 4) 
10:10 AM I1-I2 (HGH 1) 
10:10 AM I3-I4 (HGH 2) 
10:10 AM J1-J2 (HGH 3) 
10:10 AM J3-J4 (HGH 4) 
11:20 AM G1-G3 (HGH 1) 
11:20 AM G2-G4 (HGH 2) 
11:20 AM H1-H3 (HGH 3) 
11:20 AM H2-H4 (HGH 4) 
12:30 PM I1-I3 (HGH 1) 
12:30 PM I2-I4 (HGH 2) 
12:30 PM J1-J3 (HGH 3) 
12:30 PM J2-J4 (HGH 4) 

SUNDAY MAY 29TH 
9:10 AM G1-G4 (HGH 1) 
9:10 AM G2-G3 (HGH 2) 
9:10 AM H1-H4 (HGH 3) 
9:10 AM H2-H3 (HGH 4) 
10:20 AM I1-I4 (HGH 1) 
10:20 AM I2-I3 (HGH 2) 
10:20 AM J1-J4 (HGH 3) 
10:20 AM J2-J3 (HGH 4) 
1:50 PM 1ST G- 1ST H (HGH 1) 
1:50 PM 1ST I-1ST J (HGH 4) 
4:10 PM 6TH GRADE CHAMPIONSHIP (HGH 2) 

Sites: 
(HGH) Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave Neptune, NJ 07753

Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 5th Grade Orange Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 5th Grade Orange Division Schedule is listed below. Make sure you travel early because of the holiday traffic. 

POOL E 
1. RIVERSIDE HAWKS 
2. TEAM LOADED 
3. NY LIGHTNING 
4. CBC 

POOL F 
1. TEAM IZOD 
2. WE R 1 
3. NY RENS 
4. TEAM DELAWARE 

SATURDAY MAY 28TH 
4:00 PM E1-E2 (AS 1) 
4:00 PM E3-E4 (AS 2) 
5:20 PM F1-F2 (AS 1) 
5:20 PM F3-F4 (AS 2) 
6:20 PM E1-E3 (HGH 1) 
6:20 PM E2-E4 (HGH 4) 
7:30 PM F1-F3 (AS 1) 
7:30 PM F2-F4 (AS 2) 

SUNDAY MAY 29TH 
10:20 AM E1-E4 (AS 1) 
10:20 AM E2-E3 (AS 2) 
11:30 AM F1-F4 (AS 1) 
11:30 AM F2-F3 (AS 2) 
3:00 PM 1ST E-2ND F (AS 1) 
3:00 PM 1ST F-2ND E (AS 2) 
5:20 PM 5TH GRADE ORANGE DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP (HGH 1) 

Sites: 
(HGH) Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave Neptune, NJ 07753 
(AS) All Sports NJ 1750 Brielle Ave Asbury Park, NJ 07712

Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 5th Grade Blue Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 5th Grade Blue Division Schedule is listed below. Make sure you travel early because of the holiday traffic. 

POOL C 
1. T TOWN BALLERS 
2. MSU SKYLINERS 
3. LV KINGS

POOL D 
1. JERSEY FORCE 
2. SOUTH JERSEY TITANS 
3. BOSTON SPARTANS 

SATURDAY MAY 28TH 
9:00 AM C1-C2 (AS 1) 
9:00 AM D1-D2 (AS 2) 
11:20 AM C1-C3 (AS 1) 
11:20 AM D1-D3 (AS 2) 
1:40 PM C2-C3 (AS 1) 
1:40 PM D2-D3 (AS 2) 

SUNDAY MAY 29TH 
8:00 AM 3RD C-3RD D (HGH 4) 
12:40 PM 1ST C-2ND D (AS 1) 
12:40 PM 1ST D-2ND C (AS 2) 
3:00 PM 5TH GRADE BLUE DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP (HGH 1) 

Sites: 
(HGH) Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave Neptune, NJ 07753 
 (AS) All Sports NJ 1750 Brielle Ave Asbury Park, NJ 07712

Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 4th Grade Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic 4th Grade Schedule is listed below. Make sure you travel early because of the holiday traffic. 

POOL A 
1. NJ SHORE SHOTS 
2. MSU SKYLINERS 
3. BOSTON SPARTANS 
4. SOUTH JERSEY TITANS 

POOL B 
1. NY RENS 
2. TEAM DELAWARE 
3. SILVERBACKS 
4. RIVERSIDE HAWKS 

SATURDAY MAY 28TH 
10:10 AM A1-A2 (AS 1) 
10:10 AM A3-A4 (AS 2) 
12:30 PM A1-A3 (AS 1) 
12:30 PM A2-A4 (AS 2) 
2:50 PM B1-B2 (AS 1) 
2:50 PM B3-B4 (AS 2) 
6:20 PM B1-B3 (AS 1) 
6:20 PM B2-B4 (AS 2) 

SUNDAY MAY 29TH 
8:00 AM A1-A4 (AS 1) 
8:00 AM A2-A3 (AS 2) 
9:10 AM B1-B4 (AS 1) 
9:10 AM B2-B3 (AS 2) 
1:50 PM 1ST A-2ND B (AS 1) 
1:50 PM 1ST B-2ND A (AS 2) 
4:10 PM 4TH GRDAE CHAMPIONSHIP (HGH 1) 

Sites: 
(HGH) Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave Neptune, NJ 07753 
(AS) All Sports NJ 1750 Brielle Ave Asbury Park, NJ 07712

Diary Of A Baller: Bryan Hall (Hartford County, CT) Entry #5

Trey Hall 

Hello again Basketball World! 

Welcome back for the fifth week of my basketball diary. As school winds down for the year I'm finding myself even more busy with class work, but a few weeks from now I'll be able to put the textbooks down for the summer. 

Spotlight Alum Karl Anthony Towns Wins NBA Rookie Of The Year!

Karl Anthony Towns 

Basketball Spotlight Alum Karl Anthony Towns was a unanimous choice for NBA Rookie of the Year. Towns competed in Basketball Spotlight with Team NJABC and finished his middle school career by dominating the J.E.M. All Star Classic. Towns went on to have a stellar high school career at St. Joseph’s Metuchen before heading off for one year at the University of Kentucky. 

Last summer Towns was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves with the 1st overall pick. It didn't take Towns very long to make an impact. He had 28 points and 14 rebounds in the second game of the season, a victory over Denver, and though many rookies hit a wall in the middle of the long, grueling NBA regular season, Towns got better as the season went on. He averaged 21.3 points on 55 percent shooting and 11.7 rebounds in the final 31 games of the season. 

Basketball Spotlight would like to congratulate Towns on his success and wish him more in the future.

NY Rens Take Stand Against Gun Violence!

It’s a well-known fact that gun violence has been a serious problem in our country for years especially in the inner city. One basketball program has decided to step up. The NY Rens have decided to wear orange patches throughout their program to give awareness of gun violence. Their effort has not only affected their program but many teams throughout the country have also joined the movement. They were recently featured on ESPN and you can check out the video below. Basketball Spotlight is extremely proud of the NY Rens Organization and will like to help out anyway we can.

Is Isaiah Todd The #1 Player In America?

Isaiah Todd (Team Loaded)

This past fall when we released our Class of 2020 player rankings we talked about Isaiah Todd having the ability to one day reach to top of this list. This day might be sooner than later. The 6’9 forward is developing his wing game and preparing his game for the high school level and beyond. He currently resides in Richmond, VA and has become one of the building blocks for Team Loaded. Well known scout William Francis of P2Bball.com feels that the skills Todd is learning will benefit him beyond high school. “The drills and the way they are developing him is grooming him for the major college or NBA level. He’s learning how to do things that are advanced than the normal high school player. The scariest aspect of his game is that he hasn’t scratched the surface of his potential” said Francis. 

In terms of rankings Francis also gives Todd the nod. “Right now I would have to say he’s the #1 player in the country for the Class of 2020 and it could be a spot he could hold on for a long while” he finished. Basketball Spotlight will be keeping an eye on top prospect Isaiah Todd and other top players in the country. We will really see if he’s #1 in the country. Stay tuned as we bring you the inside look to more top players in the country.

Zion "The Lion" Harmon Strikes At Nike EYBL!

Zion "The Lion" Harmon

7th Grader Zion Harmon made a huge statement on the national scene as he tallied 19 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists to lead We All Can Go All Stars over Team Takeover 68-67 in the Nike EYBL 17U Division. Harmon capped his big day off by making the game winning shot on a follow up. Check out the video below of his game winner. He also made history being the first 7th Grader to play on the Nike EYBL 17U level. 

Zion’s father Mike Harmon feels blessed about his son’s performance, “I knew Zion could play and has poise but I didn’t know he could turn in a performance like this on this huge stage. We are very blessed but he understands that it’s a long road and he must continue to work hard” he finished. Basketball Spotlight will keep you updated on Harmon’s success as he continues to make history.

That's how you get it done 👊🏾. @its_zionharmon and @malikburnett23 are game changers for @WACG_Stars #EYBLHampton pic.twitter.com/PNe5hrOjPa

— Overtime (@overtime) May 14, 2016

Diary Of A Baller: Trey Hall (Hartford County, CT) Entry #4

Trey Hall & Friends At John Lucas IMSC

What's up Basketball World? 

My apologies for the delay with this diary entry, but as always I'm excited to update you all on the week I've had since my last check in. It was another important week of preparation for me with the John Lucas Camp being only 5 days away. 

My Camp Experience: Tyler Brelsford (Ellicott City, MD)

Tyler Brelsford At John Lucas IMSC

Tyler Brelsford of Ellicott City, Maryland traveled to Houston, Texas for the John Lucas International Combine. Basketball Spotlight reached out to Brelsford and here’s his experience.

Friday 5/6/16 
On Friday, I went to school and was thinking about the camp all day. After School I went home and got packed for the trip to Houston, TX. I had a good week of training and I was confident and felt well prepared. Our flight was at 8:00pm and when my Dad and I got to the airport I saw one of my buddies Cam Byers, who was on the same flight. We were talking and catching up with each other. We landed in Houston around 12 midnight. I got to the hotel and went straight to bed.

Saturday 5/7/16 
I got a good night sleep and I was glad the camp didn’t start until 12 noon. My dad and I woke up around 9:30am and went to IHop to eat breakfast. We got to the camp about 11:15am to get registered and get my jersey. The day was really long, we had a 5 hour workout of conditioning, dribbling and shooting drills, and some 1 on 1 action. During the 1 on 1, I was off and couldn’t really make a shot, but I knew that wasn’t going to last the whole weekend. We had dinner around 5pm and then it was time for games. My first game I played good. I shot the ball well, got my teammates involved and was a good leader. The second game I couldn’t really hit a shot, but I did other things to help my team. John Lucas ended the games a little early due to selfish play and players being out of shape. He then gave us a speech and let us go home. After camp I went to the hotel and chilled with my friend Ryan Conway. We ate pizza and talked about the day.

Sunday 5/8/16 
I woke up around 6:00am, the camp started at 7:30am. I wanted to be early so I could get some extra work in. We did drills for two hours and then we played two games. My first game was my best game all weekend, I couldn’t miss. I got to be on the same team with some of my buddies, Trey Hall and John Wilson, and that was fun. We had some guest speakers, Justin Jackson (UNC) and Troy Williams (Indiana) and the camp ended at 12noon. After that my friend and I, Terrance Williams went to the mall and got something to eat. Out flight wasn’t until 8pm. I landed at around 12 midnight and then had to get ready for school the next day. I had a really good experience at the John Lucas IMSC.

Basketball Spotlight MDC Deadline May 15th

The Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic is slated for May 28th and 29th and many teams have already committed. Please make sure you register early because this event is likely to sellout. Deadline is May 15th!

Basketball Spotlight MDC Committed List 

8th Grade Teams 
1. We R 1 (Blue) 
2. We R 1 (White) 
3. MSU Skyliners 
4. Jersey Force 
5. South Jersey Titans 
6. Boston Spartans 
7. Spartans 14U 
8. NJ Shore Shots 
9. NY Lightning
10. Milbank Flyers
11. Team IZOD
12. Team Final (Blue)
13. Team Final (Black)
14. Team Delaware
15. Gym Ratz
16. Role Model Basketball 
17. NJ Soldiers 
18. Brooklyn Rens
19. SJ Domination
20. NJ Elite Team 24
21. NY Lightning
22. CBC

7th Grade Teams 
1. Philly Triple Threat
2. We R 1 (White) 
3. NY Rens Kat 
4. MSU Skyliners 
5. South Jersey Titans 
6. Boston Spartans 
7. Jersey Force 
8. NJ Shore Shots 
9. Hoop Kingz Elite
10. Milbank Flyers
11. Wall 2 Wall 
12. NY Dragons
13. Learners Always Win
14. Team Delaware
15. NJ Playaz
16. NJ Soldiers 
17. Hoops Academy Lightning
18. NWK
19. Brooklyn Rens 
20. Riverside Hawks
21. SJ Domination
22. MBK Knight
23. Team Big Dreams
24.

6th Grade Teams 
1. Riverside Hawks 
2. Boston Spartans 
3. South Jersey Titans 
4. NY Rens (Kat) 
5. NJ Shore Shots 
6. Team Final  
7. Wall 2 Wall
8. We R 1
9. Team IZOD
10. Team Delaware
11. NY Lightning
12. NJ Playaz 
13. Bayshore Bulldogs
14. Staten Island Stingrays 
15. Gauchos
16. Team RIO National
17. Team Loaded
18. SJ Domination
19. Team Philly 
20

5th Grade Teams 
1. Riverside Hawks 
2. Boston Spartans 
3. Jersey Force 
4. NJ Shore Shots 
5. MSU Skyliners 
6. NY Rens KAT 
7. Milbank Flyers
8. We R 1 
9. South Jersey Titans
10. T Town Ballers 
11. Team IZOD
12. Team Delaware
13. Team Loaded 
14. NY Lightning
15. SJ Domination
16. 

4th Grade Teams 
1. NY Rens Kat 
2. Boston Spartans 
3. NJ Shore Shots 
4. Riverside Hawks 
5. South Jersey Titans 
6. Team Delaware
7. Silverbacks
8. 

Basketball Spotlight 5th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel

The Basketball Spotlight 5th Grade Top 10 is listed below. These rankings are just our opinion and should be taken as such. 

Basketball Spotlight 5th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel 

1. Riverside Hawks: The Hawks sat out the AC Showcase but will be returning for the MDC. We will see if they can truly hold on to their #1 Spot. The field is thick. 

2. New Heights: NH jumps up to #2 after winning the AC Showcase. They handled their business in one of the toughest tournaments around. 

3. NY Rens: The Rens moved up to #3 after losing to New Heights in the championship of the AC Showcase. We will see them again at the MDC 

4. CIA Bounce: We haven’t seen Bounce since they won the Clash For The Cup. Hopefully we will get another look at this crew. 

5. Team IZOD: Sports U lost in the semi-finals of the AC Showcase. They are a proven bunch and will have another shot during the MDC. 

6. B’More United Thrill: This talented put in some serious work during their Spotlight visits this year. We should see some of these studs at the Future Phenom Camp 

7. Gauchos: The Choz Made a final four run at the AC Showcase. They have a real talented bunch and we can’t wait to see them again. 

8. New World Unlimited: NWU showed some promise at the AC Showcase. You always know they are going leave it all on the floor. 

9. Playtime Panthers: PP didn’t come to the AC Showcase but will be making a return to the MDC. The Green and Black will be in the building. 

10. Philly Triple Threat: PTT jumps into the Top 10 after winning the AC Showcase 5th Grade Blue Division championship.

Basketball Spotlight 6th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel

The Basketball Spotlight 6th Grade Top 10 is listed below. These rankings are based on our opinion and should be taken as such. 

Basketball Spotlight 6th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel 

1. Riverside Hawks: RH didn’t make it to the AC Showcase and did have some player movement. We will get a chance to see if they are really still the #1 team at the MDC. 

2. EA CG Ballers: These boys from North Carolina came to the AC Showcase and ran through the competition easily. They have to be one of the top teams in the country. 

3. Team Melo: TM stumbled in a tough pool during the AC Showcase but they still have a serious resume and possess a Spotlight crown. 

4. Courtmasters Elite: This newly formed squad didn’t waste any time introducing themselves during the AC Showcase. They made a final four run and defeated some very good teams. 

5. New Heights: NH went through a tough pool and made it to the final four of the AC Showcase. I like the team they are building. 

6. NY Rens: The Rens made it to the quarterfinals of the AC Showcase they have some serious talent. We will see them at the MDC. 

7. Team Rio National: Rio made it to the quarterfinals before losing to eventually champion EA CG Ballers. We look forward to seeing them at the MDC. 

8. Team IZOD: Sports U came up short during the AC Showcase but will have another shot to get things done at the Memorial Day Classic. 

9. Hilltoppers Heat: HH possess one of the best scorers in the region. We will see if he can help them get through the loaded MDC. 

10. Gauchos: The Choz possess one of the best players in the country. Hopefully we can get them to the MDC.

Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel

The Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade Top 10 is listed below. These rankings are based on our opinion and should be taken as such. 

Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel 

1. Team IZOD: Sports U dominated the AC Showcase and virtually cemented themselves as the #1 team in the country. We will see them again during the Memorial Day Classic. 

2. Team Takeover: TTO has also dominated when they stepped on the floor. They seem to be the crown jewel squad in the DMV. I would have loved to see them battle Sports U. 

3. Baltimore United Thrill: Thrill is another top squad we enjoyed from the DMV area. I think they have a good collection of talent and a bright future. 

4. NY Rens (Kat): NY Rens made a huge leap after making it to the finals of the AC Showcase. We will see them again at the MDC. 

5. PSA Cardinals: The Cardinals looked good during the season and have some serious prospects. They are a team to keep an eye for the next few years. 

6. NY Dragons: The Dragons enter the Top 10 after making a final four run during the AC Showcase. They will have a chance to win it all during the MDC. 

7. NY Rens (Harris): This pesky bunch got it together during the AC Showcase by making it to the finals. They should be heading down to Neptune for the MDC. 

8. New World Unlimited: NWU has some serious ballers and gave us some good moments at our event earlier in the year. 

9. Philly Triple Threat: We haven’t seen much of this talented bunch since earlier in the circuit. Hopefully we can get another peek. 

10. Team Final: TF will be making another appearance at the MDC and have a chance to make a title run. I can’t wait to see they guards on this squad.

Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel

The Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade Top 10 is listed below. These rankings are based on our opinion and should be taken as such. 

Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel 

1. Team Takeover (Black): TTB has been dominant all season on the 8th grade level and has moved on the high school circuit. It will be tough for any teams to knock them out of the top spot. They have one of the best 8th Grade squads I recent years. 

2. Baltimore United Thrill: Thrill moved up after winning the AC Showcase in impressive fashion. They have a loaded squad and such be very successful the rest of the season. They were a real joy to watch. 

3. We R 1: The Delaware based squad crashed the party at the AC Showcase and made it to the finals. I like what they are building and should be a favorite to win the MDC. 

4. New Heights: NH hasn’t been in the Spotlight for a while but has shown success in other events. They have some of the top prospects in the region and should have continued success. 

5. Team Final (Blue): Team Final returns to Spotlight action during the Memorial Day Classic. It should be interesting as they could be on a collision course with rival We R 1. 

6. Brooklyn Rens: BR made a final four run at the AC Showcase and could be a tough out during the MDC. You can’t count out this rugged bunch. They could win it all. 

7. NJ Playaz: The Playaz made a quarterfinal push during the AC Showcase. They have been a very entertaining team to watch this season. 

8. Gauchos: The Gauchos didn’t come to the AC Showcase but have shown promise all season and in other events. I love how their guards play and attack the rim. 

9. RIP City: The PA boys made their Spotlight debut and made it to the final four. They have some legit pieces on this squad. 

10. NY Lightning: NYL showed some flashes at the AC Showcase before losing in the quarters to a hungry We R 1 squad. They also possess some of the top prospects in the region.

Diary Of A Baller: Bryan "Trey" Hall (Hartford County, CT) Entry #3

Trey Hall AT UA Next Combine

Hello again, Basketball World! 

Trey Hall signing back in for the third entry of my basketball diary. This week was definitely busy from a basketball sense, as I spent most evenings in the gym getting prepared for Under Armour's UA Next Combine in Maryland. It was also a week spent getting readjusted to school after April vacation came to an end.